Involving the Savior in our Mental and Emotional Health

It has been a privilege to teach the gospel over the last 25 years across the Utah Valley, Moscow Idaho, and now with you in the Salt Lake Valley! My education consists of a Masters in Social Work, and PhD in Ed Leadership with an emphasis in psychology. I have worked as a Licensed Therapist for the last 20 years assisting individuals with a variety of mental health challenges! I know that your time with us will be well spent as you learn skills, and come unto Christ in order to cope with life's unique challenges.

Ben Hemming

“I wish to speak to those who suffer from some form of mental illness or emotional disorder, whether those afflictions be slight or severe, of brief duration or persistent over a lifetime. … These afflictions are some of the realities of mortal life, and there should be no more shame in acknowledging them than in acknowledging a battle with high blood pressure or the sudden appearance of a malignant tumor.”

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

“Sadly, many who suffer from severe depression distance themselves from their fellow Saints because they feel they do not fit some imaginary mold. We can help them know and feel that they do indeed belong with us. It is important to recognize that depression is not the result of weakness, nor is it usually the result of sin [see John 9:1–7]. It ‘thrives in secrecy but shrinks in empathy’ [Jane Clayson Johnson, Silent Souls Weeping (2018), 197]. Together, we can break through the clouds of isolation and stigma so the burden of shame is lifted and miracles of healing can occur.”

Reyna I. Aburto